Calls to end 'two-tier' transport system in city

> A new Tyne and Wear Metro train, part of the 46-strong Stadler fleet

- DANIEL HOLLAND Local Democracy Reporter

THE North East's leaders have been urged to finally take action that would end the "two-tier public transport system" holding back communities in the west of Newcastle.

Councillors have renewed calls for major investment that would extend new transport links to areas like Benwell and Scotswood, which are cut off from Tyne and Wear Metro or rail services.

Seeing the Metro extended to the West End of Newcastle has been a long-held dream of many Geordies.

There was also once a vision to build a network of street trams that would have lined the area and other poorly-served parts of the North East, under the early-2000s 'Project Orpheus' blueprint that was ultimately abandoned.

But council chiefs and the North East mayor are now being pressured to revive such ambitions.

Calling for the creation of a modern transport network for the west of the city, Benwell and Scotswood councillor Rob Higgins said that the "significant" Government funds handed over to the mayor should enable a more equitable spread of transport investment across the region.

Ms McGuinness was promised a £1.85 billion package last year, part of which will be spent on extending the Metro to Washington.